Ridge Gourd or Turia

TURIA MATAR NU SHAAK (RIDGE GOURD AND PEAS VEGETABLE)

RIGID GOURD – RISHI

Turia or ridge gourd is a healthy vegetable, loaded with fibers. I like using this vegetable as you can combine it with so many other vegetables to make a nice shaak or sabji to go with chappatis, parathas, plain rice and even khichdi. When you buy turias remember to buy the sturdy and fresh ones. Dry turias do not cook well. Initally, the chopped turias may seem a lot in quantity but remember it contains a lot of water. While cooking, it will let out the water and the quantity will be reduced. Cook turias on its own or with vegetables like potatoes, beans, peas, spinach, fresh fenugreek or sweet corn etc. let your imagination run wild. I made turia with fresh peas and its one of the simplest vegetables or shaak to prepare.

Add salt and mix the vegetable well. Cover the pan and lower the heat.

Cook till the turias are done. After 5 minutes check on the vegetable. If there is not much water, then you may need to add some for the turias to get cooked. Don’t add all of the ¼ cup. Just add a bit. You can add the remaining if required later.

When the turias and peas are cooked add the coriander cumin powder and fresh coriander. Mix well.

Serve the vegetable with parathas, chappatis or rice.

Tips:

Always buy an extra turia just in case one turns out bitter.

You can use any proportion of the vegetables you like. The above recipe is just a guideline.

If you don’t like the crunchy taste of the peel, then peel the turia completely.